What to know before you go to Jazz in the Gardens
It’s that time of year again when the weather starts to warm up and soul, funk and R&B returns to South Florida.
The Jazz in the Gardens concert – now in its 13th year – will feature headliners such as Anita Baker, Chaka Khan, Fantasia, Smokey Robinson, Salt-N-Pepa, Trick Daddy and Kid ‘n Play.
Sadly for her fans, this will be Grammy-winner Baker’s (“Rapture,” “Giving You the Best that I Got”) last time performing at the festival as part of her farewell tour.
Earlier this year, the sultry songstress announced she was retiring.
“Such a pleasure to accept your invitation to headline the Festival this year, i am Humbled. A beautiful way to Celebrate, my farewell concert series abxo,” Baker, 60, wrote on her Twitter account in January.
So whether you’re a seasoned attendee or it’s your first time at the concert, here are some helpful hacks to make the most of the two-day festival.
What To Wear
Jazz in the Gardens is known to be a fashion event, especially for the ladies. But even without the summer humidity wreaking havoc on your hair, it’s still going to be hot. If you plan on being in the sun all day, bring a hat. And ladies, please for the sake of your feet, leave your Louboutin heels at home. You can still look cute in a long maxi dress paired with trendy flats Plus, you’ll get more dancing in – minus the bunions. For the men, we suggest a nice pair of linens with a short-sleeve, button-down shirt. And, of course, don’t forget to pack SPF and sunglasses.
Even with the melanin, you still need to protect your skin.
What To Bring
For those who bought general admission tickets, you’ll be standing on your feet all day. But as most veterans of the concert know, it’s much more enjoyable if you bring a lawn chair, blanket and a small rain umbrella. Please, do not put plastic bags on your hair; pack a colorful rain poncho instead. Large beach umbrellas are not allowed, nor is food or alcohol.
Where To Lounge
AARP, one of the sponsors of the Jazz in the Gardens, will have a lounge set up on the grounds where concert-goers can take a break from the heat, take a seat on a comfy couch and re-charge their cell phones. All you need is to present your AARP card upon entry.
Leave The Car At Home
Parking at the venue costs $25 per vehicle or $20 for Sun Pass holders. But first-time Uber riders can use the code HITTHEROAD for a free ride either back or forth to the concert. And honestly, if you plan on drinking, save yourself from a possible DUI and hitch a ride home.
What To Eat
Besides the old school tunes, one of the best parts of the concert is the food.
Attendees can enjoy island fare such as Jamaican jerk chicken, Trinidadian curry roti, Cuban croquetas and sandwiches. For vegans, there will also be organic options for purchase.
One of the most popular dishes is the conch salad tossed in a fresh pineapple by Miami chef, Keith Reid. Reid’s signature dish is so popular he’s known to have long lines at his food station so plan on going early if you want a taste.
What To Drink
They’ll be plenty of beer and alcohol to purchase, but why not freshen up your taste buds after you’ve devoured all that spicy food with a daiquiri, smoothie (or like we do in Miami) a pineapple paired with a straw. It’s going to be a long, eventful day so remember to drink water and stay hydrated. You wouldn’t want to pass out and miss your favorite act.
Carry Cash
Leave your credit card behind and bring cash instead just in case you can’t find at ATM. This year, Macy’s will have its own pop-up shop and merchandisers will be on hand selling African clothing and jewelry, artist memorabilia, and Jazz in the Gardens merchandise.
IF YOU GO
Jazz in the Gardens, Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr., Miami Gardens.
When: 4 p.m. Saturday, March 17; and 4 p.m. Sunday, March 18
Tickets: Two-day package, $96 to $155; single day, $69 to $86. Platinum, prime and reserved tickets come with assigned seating. For information and a seating chart, go to www.jazzinthegardens.com
